Archives by County

About Archives

Are Archives open to the public?

Archives managed by government entities are generally accessible to the public. Many offer regular public hours while others may only be open by appointment. Some Archives may include special collections that restrict access more stringently than general collections. Archives maintained by private organizations may not be accessible by the public.

Can items in an Archive be borrowed in the same way as library items?

No. The public use of an Archive is much more restricted than is typical for items in a public library. Archives often require visitors to register, provide identification, and submit request forms in order to view an item in the collection. In addition, most Archives have detailed usage guidelines in place to prevent theft or loss of Archive materials.

Do Archives accept donated materials?

Yes, many Archives are interested in accepting materials of enduring historical value. Archivists will evaluate potential donations to ensure that they meet the Archive's standards. Archives will typically require that a deed of gift be signed that legally documents the transfer of ownership of the donated materials.